Dr Iziaq Salako, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, has confirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring that all Nigerians have access to necessary eye care services.
He made this statement in Abuja on Thursday during the Eyeball Summit, which was hosted by the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Registration Board of Nigeria, ODORBN.
The News Agency of Nigeria, reported that the summit was themed: “Shaping the Future of Eye Care in Nigeria: Strengthening Systems Through Strategic Alliances.”
Salako noted that the theme is timely and aligns with the ministry’s current focus on strategic investments in the health sector.
He said it also aligns with the overall goal of the Renewed Hope Agenda to ensure that Nigerians are provided with the healthcare they need at any point in time without financial hardship.
He stated that given the rising challenges—including the growing burden of visual impairment and increasing demand for eye care services—the ministry cannot tackle eye health issues in isolation.
He emphasized that through collaboration, it is possible to ensure that all Nigerians, regardless of their location or financial situation, have access to the eye care they require.
“This summit serves as an important platform to collectively strategise and propose concrete solutions that can strengthen the eye care system in Nigeria.
“It can not be optimally productive without strategic alliances, collaboration and cooperation.
“It is through partnerships that we can pool resources, share expertise and develop innovative solutions to overcome the gaps in eye care provision,” Salako said.
He stated that this would involve raising awareness about the importance of regular eye examinations, as well as ensuring the availability of the necessary infrastructure and skilled personnel to support effective service delivery.
He explained that the partnership would also support the development of eye health-friendly policies and facilitate ongoing professional training to keep eye care practitioners current in their knowledge and skills.
“The government remains dedicated to providing the necessary tools, policies, and a conducive environment to enable you to perform your duties effectively,” he said.
“Under this administration, we will continue to improve access to affordable eye care services, particularly important in a country where many people live in underserved areas.”
Dr Obinna Awiaka, Registrar of the Board, noted that the summit reflected their shared dedication, resilience, and ambition.
According to Awiaka, it represented the board’s steadfast pursuit of excellence, its emphasis on knowledge, innovation, and collaboration, as well as a deep commitment to protecting and enhancing the gift of sight for every Nigerian.
According to him, in an era marked by rapid technological change, shifting patient needs, and complex healthcare challenges, it is imperative that the custodians of vision health stay ahead of the curve.
“We must constantly evolve, embracing innovation while upholding the highest ethical and professional standards.
“The theme speaks to a fundamental truth: No single entity, no matter how skilled or committed, can achieve transformative change alone,” he said.
